Saab to Assemble Gripen Jets in Canada for Ukraine Demand
Here’s a summary of the key data from the provided text:
* Saab is looking to expand production: The Swedish defense company Saab is exploring options to increase production capacity, possibly in Canada or elsewhere in Europe, due to high global demand.
* Canada as a potential hub: Saab views Canada as an ”ideal partner” for expansion, citing a skilled workforce and the potential for exporting. They currently assemble Global Eye aircraft in Mississauga, Ontario, but final outfitting happens in Sweden. They want to bring more of that final stage work to Canada.
* Support for ukraine: Saab is in talks with Ukraine to potentially supply up to 150 Gripen fighter jets. Ukraine is aiming for a fleet of around 250 aircraft, including F-16s and Rafales, with gripens being prioritized for their ease of maintenance and rapid training requirements.
* Canadian Government Interest: Canadian Industry Minister Mélanie Joly expressed enthusiasm for Saab’s potential expansion in Canada, highlighting shared interests in European security, Ukraine, and the aerospace sector. She’s actively working to foster partnerships with Saab.
* Past Canadian Fighter jet Competition: Saab previously bid to replace Canada’s CF-18 fighter jets with its Gripen,but lost the contract to Lockheed Martin’s F-35.
* Existing Production: saab already has Gripen production lines in Sweden and Brazil and is looking to add more.